Painting a Colorbond fence
Colorbond steel is one of the most durable fencing materials for the harsh Australian climate. It’ll stand the test of time and even comes with a 10-year warranty. However, all things are susceptible to wear and tear over time – Colorbond included. If you live near a coastal area or haven’t kept up with fence maintenance, or your Colorbond fence is old, you might find it has started to look worn out and could do with a repaint. You may also want to repaint purely for aesthetic reasons to suit your taste.
You should be aware, though – painting a Colorbond fence is a big job and a more complicated process than painting other fence materials like timber. It will also void your warranty if your fence is less than ten years old.
Still keen to paint? Read on to find out more about the best way to paint a Colorbond fence.
How do I know what paint to use on a Colorbond fence?
Usually, a water-based, acrylic exterior paint is the best paint to repaint a Colorbond fence. You’ll need at least three coats, so factor this in when buying paint. If in doubt on which paint to choose, contact your fencing contractor or manufacturer to see if there’s a specific type of paint they recommend for repainting Colorbond. Traditional fence paints are not designed for metal surfaces and will not last.
What’s the best way to repaint Colorbond fencing?
Can you paint a Colorbond fence with a brush? Or can you spray paint a Colorbond fence? Both are viable options, but you’ll probably achieve a more uniform finish using a paint sprayer. Using a sprayer is also much faster than painting with a brush.
Do you need to prime a Colorbond fence before painting?
Yes, you should use a primer or a Colorbond-compatible self-priming paint.
Painting Colorbond: Best Practices
- Remove any cobwebs and debris from your fence and clean with soapy water and a garden hose, or use a pressure washer on a lower pressure setting.
- Lightly sand the surface of your fence before applying primer or paint to help the paint adhere to the surface, then rinse with water and allow it to dry completely.
- Use a drop cloth to protect areas beneath and around the fence from paint spills or splatters.
- Use at least three coats of water-based, acrylic exterior paint – ask a professional for their recommendations.
- Use a paint sprayer if possible instead of a brush, as this will provide a more uniform finish.
This is not an exhaustive list, and we highly recommend seeking advice from a professional before starting this project to avoid mishaps. If your budget allows, it’s best to hire a professional for the job – they’ll get it done quickly, and it’ll look great too!
How Much Does Fence Painting Cost vs DIY Fence Painting?
Painting your Colorbond fence is a big job and can require special equipment like a paint sprayer, so it may be worth hiring a professional. Professional Colorbond fence repainting usually costs around $45 per meter, but please contact a professional for a reliable quote.
If going the DIY route, you should be mindful of over spraying to protect your neighbours’ properties from paint residue.
Is it time to replace your Colorbond fence?
There are times when repainting just won’t cut it, and it may be wiser and more cost-efficient to replace your Colorbond fence instead. The last thing you want is to spend time and money repainting an old, very weathered fence when it’ll need replacing in a few years.
Colorbond fencing is surprisingly affordable. With Team Work Fencing, you’ll pay around $85 – $95 per metre and can rest assured knowing you have a 10-year warranty on materials. Or if you wish to opt for a more stylish painted timber fencing look without compromising on sturdiness. A PVC fence, although more expensive carries a 30-year warranty on materials. PVC fence panels are a great way to get the look of a timber fence with the durability of a Colourbond fence.
Need advice for repainting your Colorbond fence, or feel like it’s time to install something brand new? Team Work Fencing contractors are Perth’s Colorbond fencing experts – contact us today!
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